Warning, you could miss out on one awesome family SUV. For some reason, the Mazda CX-9 is one highly underrated three-row SUV. It’s time for the 2022 Mazda CX-9 to stop being ignored because it’s better than you think. 

Is the 2022 Mazda CX-9 worth buying? 

Yes, the 2022 Mazda CX-9 is worth buying if you want a three-row SUV that’s equipped to be fun, safe, and comfortable. It should be front row and center against the incredibly popular Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade. 

You can get started in a new Mazda CX-9 for about $35,280. This is a little more than the 2022 Kia Telluride, which begins at around $33,090, but the CX-9 includes plenty of value with its price. 

For example, the Mazda CX-9 has standard AWD, which is an excellent perk. It typically costs between $800 to about $1,500 to add all-wheel drive to other options. But the CX-9 can only tow up to 3,500 lbs while the Telluride can tow up to 5,000 lbs.

How does the 2022 CX-9 perform? 

It’s hard not to smile while driving the 2022 Mazda CX-9. It feels sporty and engaging, even while following the speed limit. The CX-9 provides an athletic performance and doesn’t feel like a larger SUV. 

It comes with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque with 93 octane fuel. According to Edmunds, it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.6 seconds, which is above average for the class. 

The CX-9 corners well and has a lot of grip around curves with responsive handling. The brakes are slightly soft but are easy to get used to. Plus, there’s hardly any body roll around curves. 

Best of all, the Mazda CX-9 has a smooth ride over bumps and remains quiet at highway speeds. 

If you put it in Sport mode, the suspension tightens up, and the acceleration speed improves. Plus, the engine provides a satisfying roar. You can use the paddle shifters to have even more fun. 

The turning radius is pretty tight, and the 360-degree camera display makes it easy to maneuver through tight city areas. 

Is the Mazda CX-9 good for families? 

Yes, as noted above, the 2022 Mazda CX-9 is safe and fun. But it’s also quite spacious. Critics often complain about the third row of the CX-9 being too small. It’s for kids only. However, that’s the case with the Ford Explorer, Toyota Highlander, Kia Sorento, and more. 

At 5’1”, I fit in the third row of the Mazda CX-9 just fine. My knees didn’t hit the back of the second-row chairs. Kids or your short friends get their own USB ports back there. 

You can access up to 14.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 71.2 cubes total. There are plenty of storage bins for personal items. 

Standard safety features include automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning with lane-keeping assist, and standard adaptive cruise control. I set the drowsy driver warning off twice and got dinged for not having my hands on the steering wheel at a red light. 

If you need a three-row SUV, give the 2022 Mazda CX-9 a chance. It will surprise you with its comfort, fun, space, and safety. It’s one well-rounded family SUV.